HONG KONG — A Hong Kong actor who overcame cancer will distribute handmade gifts to audience members during an upcoming 10-performance run of the stage play Loch Ness Monster at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in October, he announced Thursday.
Or To Wing, alongside fellow cast members Leung Chung-hang, Deng Tao and Lai Chi-ming, revealed the production schedule during a press conference. Or said he decided to give away souvenirs purchased during a recent trip to Loch Ness in Scotland as a gesture of gratitude toward fans who supported him during his illness.
“I received so much love from audience members while I was sick last year, so I want to give back,” Or explained. “Each performance, I will present one audience member with a handmade souvenir I bought at Loch Ness. If ticket sales are strong and we add more shows, I will continue.”
The actor, who was diagnosed with cancer while rehearsing the stage play Banana Grand Theatre last year, said he initially struggled to accept the diagnosis. After more than a year of treatment and lifestyle adjustments, his physical and mental health have significantly improved. He has quit smoking, drinks more warm water, prioritises rest and undergoes check-ups every six weeks.
“My health indicators are excellent now,” Or said. “I am confident I can handle at least 10 performances.”
Or refused to stop working entirely during treatment but avoided overexerting himself. He said his current condition allows him to perform comfortably.
Also during the press conference, Or addressed his recent near-win at the Taipei Film Festival, where he lost the Best Actor award to Liu Kuan-ting by a single vote. “I was angry for two days,” Or admitted with a laugh. “But I got over it. I truly admire Liu as an actor. I hope we can work together someday and compete on screen.”
Deng Tao, making her stage debut in a more demanding role, will play a singer with average vocal ability. She acknowledged her own singing skills are limited and said she is practising intensively.
“It’s a bit nerve-wracking since I’m inexperienced,” Deng said. “But I already know my fellow cast members, so I’m confident rehearsals will be smooth and enjoyable.”
Deng is also filming a new movie, The Man Who Revenges, in which she portrays a heavy character. Working under the director’s guidance and alongside veteran actor Lau Ching-wan has been a valuable learning experience, she said.
“I watched how Lau handles his roles,” Deng noted. “He doesn’t pressure new actors. He lets everyone work freely in a comfortable environment. I saw his performance in Papa — he blends into the character so naturally. It’s truly impressive.”
When asked about Lau’s public praise for her winning the Best New Actor award, Deng remained modest. “It was just a coincidence,” she said.
The 10-performance run of Loch Ness Monster will take place at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in October. Ticket availability and details on Or’s audience gift distribution method are expected to be announced closer to the performance dates.
